Exclusive: Bolton Wanderers in pole position to sign forward as Wrexham decision made

Bolton Wanderers are leading the race to sign Wrexham forward Ryan Hardie before Monday’s transfer deadline, sources have told Football Insider.

Bolton boss Steven Schumacher is a big fan of Hardie, having worked with the 28-year-old during his time in charge of Plymouth Argyle, and he is keen to be reunited with the player.

The League One promotion chasers are believed to be in pole position to land Hardie in the coming days.

He has struggled to make an impact since his arrival from Plymouth last summer and is down the pecking order in Phil Parkinson‘s plans.

Wrexham have been linked with several forwards in recent weeks, with at least one expected to arrive before Monday’s deadline.

Wrexham’s search for forwards continues

Football Insider revealed on Thursday that Wrexham are set to offer £5million for Ipswich Town forward Sammie Szmodics.

The 30-year-old netted 33 goals for Blackburn Rovers in the Championship just two years ago, and is expected to be available for the right fee.

But that is not the only forward that Wrexham have attempted to sign in recent days.

Football Insider revealed last week that, incredibly, Wrexham have submitted a £19m bid for Angers forward Sidiki Cherif.

The teenager is subject to interest from Crystal Palace, but the ambitious Championship club have attempted to steal a march on the South London club.

Negotiations are thought to be ongoing as Parkinson hopes to see a new forward arrive before the deadline, with Hardie’s future potentially relying on those talks.

What Steven Schumacher has said about Ryan Hardie previously

Hardie enjoyed two superb years under the management of Schumacher at Plymouth.

The 2021-22 season, in which the now-Bolton manager was named in charge at Home Park, the forward scored 19 goals across all competitions, including 16 in League One.

The following season again saw Hardie thrive as Plymouth went up, and his start in the Championship was superb as well, although Schumacher would leave mid-way through the season to join Stoke City.

Speaking in March 2023, the manager waxed lyrical about Hardie. “He has got so much quality,” he told Plymouth Live.

“He knows he’s going to get them [chances] and he’s confident to take them,” he added. “Once again he has proved how good he is.”

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